Located in Trenton, The New Jersey State Museum is a center for the exploration of science, history and the arts with a mission to preserve and share stories that inspire curiosity and creativity for the enrichment of their communities.
Captivating Collections
Explore works of fine art by some of America’s (and New Jersey’s) most important artists including prints, drawings, sculptures and photographs.
Step back 3.5 billion years to explore the geology of New Jersey and the oldest fossils from the state. Learn about the evolution of turtles, fish, mammals and birds. Meet New Jersey’s own Dryptosaurus, the world’s first known carnivorous dinosaur. Visit a life-sized cast of Hadrosaurus foulkii, New Jersey’s state dinosaur, and Mosasaurus maximus, a 50-foot marine reptile discovered in southern New Jersey.
View prehistoric and historic specimens, encompassing data on the entire span of human life in New Jersey. See the evolution of tools and other artifact types used by Native Americans and a glimpse into the lives of the Delaware Indians over a 200-year time span.
The museum is also home to thousands of artifacts documenting New Jersey’s cultural, economic, military, political and social history ranging from pottery and textiles to flags carried into battle.
Exciting Exhibitions
Enjoy interesting and educational exhibits that offer an up-close and insightful look into astounding marvels in culture, art, history, science and beyond.
Now through January 8th, 2023 enjoy the Jaw Dropping World of Sharks exhibit which aims to dispel some of the myths and misunderstandings about sharks and their relatives by exploring their biology, fossil record, conservation and cultural significance.
The 2022 New Jersey Arts Annual: Reemergence, on display June 25 through April 30, 2023, highlights the work of visual artists and craftspeople from around the state. The 95 selected artists, working across disciplines and media, have each responded to the ruptures and challenges of life in the pandemic in their own ways. In much of the work, themes of anxiety, isolation, surrealism, and dis/connection come through, as do impulses to contemplate and commune with immediate surroundings, be it an interior scene, still-life, or landscape.
A Galaxy of Planetarium Shows
Take a visual journey through the mysteries of space in the Museum’s spectacular 360-degree domed Planetarium with spacious reclining seats. Entertaining laser shows are offered seasonally too!
Visit the Museum Shop
Discover gifts that inspire creativity and curiosity and reflect the diversity of the museum’s collections. Find unique jewelry, pottery handcrafted by New Jersey artisans and fun novelties along with educational toys and games. Members save 10% on each purchase.
Become a Member
Members receive a variety of exclusive benefits and ensure that the New Jersey State Museum continues to be a center of exploration of the rich cultural and scientific heritage of New Jersey. Learn more about membership and find the level that’s right for you. Memberships can also be purchased at the Museum Shop during your visit.
General admission to the New Jersey State Museum is free. There is a fee for Planetarium shows.
Hours and more details can be found on the museum’s website.
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